THE Tories will lead Tendring Council’s new administration following a split in the district's Ukip group.
Neil Stock, who represents Ardleigh and Little Bromley, was elected as the new leader of the authority at the annual council meeting on Tuesday.
The Conservatives lost their overall majority on the council at the local elections on May 7, following a surge in support for Ukip.
It left the Tories with 23 seats and Ukip with 22 – out of a total of 60 seats.
But the Conservatives will lead the new administration following a deal with six independents and a breakaway Ukip group.
At least nine of the Ukip councillors have formed the new Tendring Ukip group, led by Mick Skeels, and will work as part of the Conservative- led administration.
The remaining Ukip councillors, led by Mark Stephenson, have vowed not to join the administration.
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